Honey, I ate the cell phone

©Maria Svenko/Shutterstock.com 

As if you hadn’t noticed, the cell phone is dominating many aspects of society. Everywhere you turn, people have their phone in hand-some while crossing busy intersections, while driving, in the middle of dinner, and at theaters or public gatherings. The late Dr. Neil Postman, author of Technopoly, warned us that technology has a way of taking over quickly without us realizing. 

Fortunately, we can take charge individually. We don't have to be grasping that little gadget all day long. Here are four tips for you to retain control of the powerful, hand-held device that you own, covet, and count on so often throughout the day:

1) Set aside times throughout the day to put down your phone.

It is to your benefit to have stretches throughout the day when you are not giving instant attention to the latest email, text, or news.

2) Have a purpose in mind when you do use your cell phone.

If you have calls to make, it’s often productive to make them all in the same sitting. If you’re checking the news, listening to music, or reviewing photographs, decide in advance how much time you will devote to that endeavor before turning back to what you were working on.

3) Consider the type of apps available that will help you to complete tasks faster or make your career or life easier.

Many people load up phone with apps, but they don’t use most them. However, a handful of high utility apps can provide great benefit to you. Ask around. What are your peers, friends, and relatives using? What have they found to be most effective?

4) Steadfastly refuse to bring your cell phone into the bedroom when it's time for sleep.

The light and stimulation you get when using your phone can delay your bedtime and impact your ability to have a restful sleep.  

Jeff Davidson is "The Work-Life Balance Expert®" and a thought leader on work-life balance issues. He speaks to organizations that seek to enhance their overall productivity by improving the work-life balance of their people. Visit breathingspace.com for more information.